Mark Sunday, February 2, 2020 in your diary! It’s the date for the Sixth Annual Opeongo Hills Classic Loppet – a classic cross-country ski race hosted in the rolling Opeongo Hills near Brudenell. The mass start is at 11 a.m. Adults can compete at distances of 5, 10 or 12 km; for youth under 18 the distance is 5 km and for kids under 10 the course is 2.5 km long. Photo above shows competitors at the 2019 Classic.
Loppet Director Peter Cruchet said, “New this year is the Team category. Gather your friends, family and neighbours to form a team. Awards will be given to the largest team and the team with the best costumes. Team members can still compete for individual prizes.”
Last year’s loppet participants said they competed for the challenge of racing or just to enjoy the scenery. The groomed and track-set trails cater to various skill levels, and they take skiers to some of the most beautiful spots in the Madawaska valley, about 20 minutes east of Eganville, or 13 km south of Killaloe. Scroll down for a video link showing the awesome trail system.
Participants and visitors to the loppet should bring warm clothing for after the race – there is no lodge, but there is a yurt to warm up in, an outhouse, and a safe place to leave bags. Stay after the event for awards and hot refreshments, and chat with other racers and the friendly volunteers.
To register for the Opeongo Hills Classic
Participants can register on-line at www.Zone4.ca until 9 p.m. on Saturday, February 1st or before 10 a.m. on race day, February 2nd. On-site registration and bib pick-up on is February 2nd from 8:30 – to -10 a.m. The cost is $30 for the main races, or $5, $10 and $15 for the kids, youth and adult social categories. Races start at 11 a.m.
Love the outdoors but not a skier?
Non-skiers can still enjoy this amazing day out – either as a spectator or you can get involved as a volunteer! Club membership is not required, just contact Cruchet and he’ll put you to work: 613-334-0980 or email pdcruchet@gmail.com Below kids and parents wait their turn at the 2019 Classic.
Website / Kids program
Before you go, visit the website at opeongonordic.com for more information, directions, and the course map. Follow the club news on FaceBook at Opeongo Hills Nordic Ski Club. Parents should note also that registration is open now for the Opeongo Gliders Youth Program starting Jan. 11 for kids aged 5 to 16. (There is even some limited ski rental availability.)
Take a look at the Opeongo Hills Nordic trail system
This drone footage of the Opeongo Hills Nordic Ski Club trail system shot at Christmas 2018 is sure to whet your appetite for cross-country skiing. Click the link below to view. This video was shot, edited and produced by Reed Jorgensen.
Directions to Opeongo Hills
To get to the ski club: From Wilno drive south and east on Highway 66 to Brudenell. Head straight up Drohan Road to the ski club trails.
Cruchet,P. (2019,Dec.23) OPEONGO CLASSIC LOPPET NEWS RELEASE [media release]